Port of Spain, January 21, 2025: “The 40 Under 40 Programme delivers one clear mission, to empower and inspire the next generation of leaders, by connecting young people between the ages of 14 and 16 with some of the brightest minds.” These were the words of the Honourable Foster Cummings, Minister of Youth Development and National Service, as he outlined the purpose of the 40 Under 40 Programme during the launch held at the Ministry’s Head Office, St Clair, Port of Spain.
The 40 Under 40 Programme is a National Mentorship Programme, administered by the Ministry of Youth Development and National Service (MYDNS), in collaboration with the Ministry of education (MOE) that provides a platform for National Service Influencers (NSIs) to engage with secondary school students. The National Service Influencers are established, professionals, under the age of 40 years, in fields such as entrepreneurship, entertainment, agriculture, fashion, and sport. Through the programme, the NISs share their testimonies and life experiences for the purpose of broadening the students’ knowledge of career choices and promoting introspection towards behaviour modification.
Minister Cummings while delivering the feature address, also highlighted that the 2025 cycle of the 40 Under 40 programme will impact at least 1300 students stating, “The skills and knowledge they gain through this programme and the lessons they learn about resilience, discipline and integrity will serve these young students for a lifetime”. The Minister also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the NSIs for their unwavering commitment towards shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
The 2025 cycle of the 40 Under 40 Programme will be delivered in two phases across 25 schools in Trinidad. Phase 1 will take place from January to March 2025, involving nine schools, while Phase 2 will run from April to June 2025 covering 16 additional schools.
Faith Gillezeau, Miss Universe Trinidad and Tobago 2023 and a NSI, described her interactions with students during last year’s 40 Under 40 school visits as “moments of magic”, as she saw students glimmer with hope just by having a listening ear.
Mrs. Louanna Sandy, Dean at the Mucurapo West Secondary School, which benefited from the 40 under 40 Programme highlighted that students became overwhelmed with emotions upon learning that some of their mentors have endured similar, unfortunate circumstances to them, and have been able to achieve success. Mrs. Sandy described the programme as “relevant, relatable and rewarding”.
Minister Cummings ensured the audience at the Launch that mental health professionals will be introduced into the programme to enhance the support to the students and that this type of intervention can reduce some of the problems we are currently experiencing in society.
The Ministry of Youth Development and National Service remains committed to bringing all stakeholders together to promote youth development and encourages civic-minded citizens to contribute to National Service across Trinidad and Tobago.
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